I've just finished Miles Davis' autobiography which was a really good read, although a lot of time is devoted to the endlessly revolving cast of his band which can get a little wearing if you aren't totally on top of jazz. I've also started Great Expectations for the first time (and am enjoying it) and working my way through Vanity Fair, where I've committed the cardinal sin of leaving it too long between reading sessions so that the narrative cools off in your head and it all turns into a bit of a slog.

And just before we move onto this week's review list, I'd just like to say: I don't believe it! One of the few weeks I'm away and there's a love-in about my favourite author, Anna Kavan! The odds of this happening again are as rare as picking up a first edition of her bizarre, fabulous novel, Sleep Has His House. That'll teach me for going on holiday. richardpierce, Mexican2, LauraOliver, I'm very glad you enjoyed Ice so much, what's everyone reading this week?

This week's review list is a little, well, little because – I as said earlier – we're all about Christmas and looking back over the year. Get your pens at the ready; there may well be lots of titles add to your present wish-list.